GALLAGHER'S WORD

The Steelers are not making the playoffs.Let me say this again. They are NOT going to the playoffs. Sorry to be so blunt, but come on, people! It's not all of you, but some are still holding out for a miracle on Art Rooney Avenue. The miracle might disappear before the Steelers take the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field late Sunday afternoon.You know the scenario. Win out, Ravens lose out, Jets win out, Chargers lose at least one of their last two and BOOM! They're in, baby! Stop. Just stop. It's not happening. I am surprised Steeler fans aren't sacrificing livestock to the football Gods at this point. The Dolphins are going to win one of their last two games. That one game is happening Sunday in Buffalo. The Bills have Thad Lewis starting at QB and Miami is playing for a playoff spot. Temps in the mid 40s are as mild as you could get in Buffalo at this time of year. The Jets are another team who are actually in the hunt. They have Cleveland at home and take on the Dolphins to finish off the year. If Miami does find a way to lose to the shorthanded Bills and New York beats the Browns (which they should), that scenario gets interesting down in South Beach. The Patriots are in Baltimore to face the Ravens. Even though New England has a healthy Tom Brady, the season is apparently over due to Gronkowski's newest injury. Not only does Baltimore have a shot at the sixth seed in the AFC, they could win the division if the Bengals collapse. The Ravens play the Bengals in week 17. NOTE: Baltimore is 6-1 at home. Got to like their chances against a banged-up Patriot team. The Chargers have Oakland and Kansas City at home to wrap up the season. This scenario is the one most can see going the Steelers way. Too bad none of the other ones will. In the end, there are three reason why we are stuck with this scenario. Tennessee, Minnesota and Oakland. Better luck next year, Steelers Nation.